Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
